The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program is designed to help low-income households manage their energy expenses. But when people ask, “What Is The Cost For Cares Program?”, they’re often not asking about a direct fee to enroll. Instead, they’re likely seeking to understand how this program impacts them and the broader energy landscape. Let’s delve into what CARE is, what it offers, and how it’s funded.
Decoding the CARE Program: More Than Just a Discount
The CARE program isn’t about cost for eligible customers; it’s about providing substantial cost relief. Participating households receive a significant discount on their monthly utility bills. Specifically, this translates to a 30-35 percent discount on electric bills and a 20 percent discount on natural gas bills. This reduction can make a considerable difference for families struggling to afford essential energy services.
This program aims to ensure that all Californians, regardless of income, have access to affordable energy. It’s a critical safety net, especially in a state with high living costs.
Who Funds the CARE Program? Understanding the “Cost” Structure
If eligible customers aren’t paying a direct “cost” for the CARE program, how is it funded? The answer lies in a small surcharge applied to the utility bills of other customers. Essentially, all utility customers contribute a small amount to ensure the program’s sustainability. This collective funding model allows for the provision of these vital discounts to those who need them most, making energy more affordable across the state.
Think of it as a community support system, where everyone contributes to ensure the well-being of vulnerable members by helping them manage essential energy costs.
Is Your Household Eligible for CARE? Income and Program Guidelines
Eligibility for the CARE program is primarily based on household income. If your total household income falls at or below the set income limits, you are likely eligible. These income limits are updated annually to reflect changes in the cost of living.
Here are the current CARE Income Guidelines, effective through May 31, 2025:
| Household Size | Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $105,440 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 |
| * Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 |
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- Food Stamps/SNAP
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Tribal TANF
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically qualifies you for CARE, streamlining the application process and ensuring broader reach.
Applying for CARE: Connecting with Your Utility Provider
To apply for the CARE program and start saving on your energy bills, the first step is to contact your utility company. Each utility provider in California manages CARE applications for its service area.
You can request an application form and get detailed information directly from your utility provider. Many also offer online application options through their websites. Here’s a quick guide to contacting some of the major utility companies:
| Phone Numbers and Websites for Energy Assistance Programs |
|---|
| Utility |
| PG&E |
| Edison |
| SDG&E |
| SoCalGas |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas |
| Bear Valley Elect |
| PacifiCorp |
| Liberty Utilities |
| Southwest Gas |
| West Coast Gas |
Visit the websites listed in the table above or call the provided numbers to learn more about the CARE program and begin your application process. Community agencies also often have CARE application forms available and can provide assistance.
Beyond CARE: The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
For families whose income slightly exceeds the CARE limits, California offers the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA provides an 18% discount on electricity bills. It’s designed as an additional tier of support for households that are still income-constrained but don’t qualify for the deeper CARE discounts.
FERA is available to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric Company. Contact your electric utility to check if your family qualifies for FERA.
Conclusion: CARE as an Investment in Community Well-being
So, “what is the cost for CAREs program?” In direct terms for eligible participants, the answer is zero cost to enroll and significant cost savings on energy bills. The program is an investment in the well-being of California communities, ensuring that low-income residents can access essential energy services without facing undue financial hardship. By understanding how CARE is funded and who benefits, we can appreciate its vital role in promoting energy equity and affordability across California. If you believe you may be eligible, reaching out to your utility provider is the first step towards accessing these valuable savings.
